Mah-vel-ous Music in Malibu for the Midnight MissionReviewed By Marilyn Anderson
Guests attending the “From Malibu with Love” Benefit Concert for the Midnight Mission of Los Angeles were treated to an incredible night of killer musical talent. The concert on Friday, March 23, at the Malibu Performing Arts Center started with a set from Ilsey Juber, a newcomer with a great style and unique voice. The evening continued with A-list talent that kept the room rocking all night. There were performances by the Zen Cruisers, Jackson Browne, and Los Lobos. Richie Sambora (from Bon Jovi) served as the emcee—and also performed a bunch of sensational numbers, including a fabulous rendition of the Beatles’ “I Get High with a Little Help from My Friends.” Richie is not only super-talented and super-cute, but a man of tremendous generosity. When the live auction started, Richie made bids on almost all the items – and ended up winning the use of a Ferrari for four days along with a special dinner at a Malibu restaurant. (Hmmm—wonder who he’ll take? I’m available!) With many of the items, Richie also added a special treat to help raise more funds—a guitar lesson from Richie Sambora! The live auction included three one-of-a-kind guitars donated by Norman’s Rare Guitars, Fender Guitars, and Tom Petty, whose personal acoustic Takamin guitar sold for $10,000. The other guitars sold for $4,500 and $5,000. The last and highest bid item for the night came right off Richie Sambora’s wrist–an Ernst Benz ChronoScope watch with five solitaire diamonds from Alan Friedman Designs. The watch retails for $21,000 and sold at the auction for $12,000. In addition to the entertainment and live auction, there were a silent auction, champagne bar, and a catered dinner by Geoffrey’s Malibu for Platinum & Gold Ticket Holders. The evening raised approximately $70,000 in funds for the Midnight Mission. For nearly a century, the Midnight Mission has served the Los Angeles homeless population with empathy and respect and has made available food, shelter, and clothing to the men and women of Skid Row. A brief film was presented, and everyone was completely moved as one of the directors of the Midnight Mission introduced himself as a man who had been on the streets only eight years ago. “From Malibu with Love” was a truly memorable night for a worthy cause—and a rare opportunity to see such extraordinary talent in an intimate venue. For more info, visit: www.midnightmission.org |
Tag: Marilyn Anderson
Brunch in the Backyard!
SLEEPING BEAUTY WAKES
Reviewed By Marilyn Anderson
What would happen if Sleeping Beauty didn’t like the prince who kissed her? She wouldn’t wake up! At least not for centuries! That’s the premise of this world premiere musical adaptation ofSleeping Beauty at the Kirk Douglas Theater in Culver City.
Produced in conjunction with the Center Theater Group and the Deaf West
Theater, the production utilizes both deaf and hearing actors, signing and singing. The musical is the first-of-its-kind commissioned work created expressly for the genre that the producers coined the “Sign Language Theatre Musical.”
Sleeping Beauty is a story we’ve all grown up with; but in this version, Beauty doesn’t wake up until modern times, in a Sleep Disorder Center, where assorted catatonics, narcoleptics, and somnambulists are hanging out. Her father, the king, traded the sorcerers of his kingdom all his jewels for their magic, so he could live long enough to watch over his daughter and be there when she finally wakes up. And when she does, it’s by the kiss of a catatonic motorcyclist who works as an orderly in the Sleep Center. It’s someone her father would never approve of, but somehow everything works out.
Although Sleeping Beauty was originally a purely romantic story, in this version there is an additional theme that is poignant and meaningful, with an ending that touched my heart. It’s the story of a father and daughter; he wants to keep her safe always, but finally realizes he must let her be free to live her own life and make mistakes along the way. It’s tender and touching—and a surprise to see there’s something deeper under the fun and creativity.
More than that, the production is hip and clever, with musicians that totally rock! The music and lyrics of Brendan Milburn and Valerie Vigoda are creative, sharp, and witty. This husband and wife team comprises two thirds of the pop/rock band Groove Lily—and they are a smash.
Valerie is the voice of Snow White. Her voice soars and is often accompanied by her six-string electric violin, which is spectacular. Brendan does the voice of Beauty’s love interests and also plays keyboard for the production. With a book by Rachel Sheinkin and direction by Jeff Calhoun, Sleeping Beauty Wakes is a special and entertaining fable to be enjoyed by all ages.
The last musical collaboration from the Center Theater Group and the Deaf West Theater was Big River, which played at the Ahmanson and moved on to Broadway to win several Tony Awards.
Sleeping Beauty Wakes is a comparatively small show with a simple story, but it’s fresh and fun, as well as a rare opportunity to be shared by both hearing and deaf audiences.
Kirk Douglas Theatre
9820 Washington Blvd
Culver City, CA 90232
www.centertheatregroup.org / 213-628-2772
The Best of Broadway…. In Los Angeles!
The Best of Broadway …. In Los Angeles!
By Marilyn Anderson
It seems like people always wait until they take a trip to New York to go to a Broadway Show. But right here in Los Angeles are some of the most wonderful shows to see – especially those you may have missed the first time around!
Reprise! Broadway’s Best at UCLA’s Freud Playhouse presents classic musicals of the last century. The casts include many celebrated Broadway performers and well-known actors working in Hollywood.
I grew up dancing around my living room to the sound tracks from many old musicals. One I was lucky enough to catch recently was the closing show for Reprise’s tenth season —“No Strings,” starring Scott Bakula and Sophina Brown.
This 1962 musical features a book by Samuel Taylor and score by Richard Rodgers. It’s the only show for which Rodgers wrote both the music and the lyrics, including it’s most well known song, “The Sweetest Sounds.” The simple plot revolves around a Pulitzer prize-winning novelist with writer’s block who findslove with a high-fashion model in Paris. Ultimately, they both realize that they have to part – “no strings” – so that she can continue her European fashion career and he can return home to Maine to regain his writing chops. The costumes by Bob Mackie and Joe McFate were amazing. All the women in the ladies room were oohing and ahhing about them – and they were truly the icing on the musical cake!
Reprise! also has a series of “Marvelous Musical Mondays,” where the actors perform the show with scripts in hand – but the truth is, it doesn’t matter – there’s a fun and spontaneity to it that’s electrifying. “It’s a Bird … It’s a Plane … it’s Superman!” was one of the most fabulous evenings I’ve had in years. The performers included the always funny Richard Kind, in a part that seems written just for him – although he was probably just a little kid when it
first came out. Richard was soooo funny and soooo brilliant in this – it was absolutely a one-of-a-KIND (pun intended) evening. All the other actors were fabulous as well, including Cheyenne Jackson as the dual lead, Superman and Clark Kent. Cheyenne is a total hottie, who can act and sing up a storm, too! Patrick Cassidy was sensational reprising the role that his father created on Broadway and an extra special treat was composer Charles Strouse narrating.
Reprise! Broadway’s Best has a phenomenal new 11 th season coming up August 16, 2007 thru May 18, 2008. They begin with Rodgers and Hart’s ON YOUR TOES, which was the first Broadway musical to integrate classical dance into the plot, with songs like “Slaughter on Tenth Avenue” and “There’s a Small Hotel.” Next, is the not-to-be-missed 1950’s baseball-meets-dance musical comedy, DAMN YANKEES, with a score by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross. You’ll recognize songs like “Whatever Lola Wants” and “Heart” as in “You’ve got to have heart…” along with others that aren’t as familiar – but just as wonderful. Then, based on the famous comic strip by Al Capp, is the witty musical satire, LI’L ABNER. Their season ends with FLORA, THE RED MENACE, which was the first collaboration between John Kander and Fed Ebb and starred a young Liza Minelli when it first came out. It will be exciting to see who will be performing with Reprise! Broadway’s Best. There will be a season of Marvelous Musical Mondays, too – shows to be announced soon.
So save your money. Instead of plane tickets to New York – just drive over to Westwood to see the best Broadway shows.
Order tickets online at
www.reprise.org
Phone: 310-825-2101
Brazillian Tropicana Boca Raton, Florida
Marilyn Anderson’s
Romance on the Road goes to….
Brazilian Tropicana
Boca Raton, Florida
Some nights are for intimate romance, and some are for pure fun. On this night, we grabbed another couple, Harvey and Barbara, and headed for a lively evening with a traditional Brazilian meal and an energy-filled show.
Upon arriving at the restaurant, we started off with a pitcher of Sangria, which was cold, sweet, and filled with fruit. Next, we headed up to the cold salad buffet, where we piled our plates with spinach salad, beets, hearts of palm, artichokes, and various other salad fixings. They also had salmon, which I literally “forgot” to taste. Me, forget food? Oh well…next time.
After the salad course, the servers bring you fresh plates, and put hearty family-style helpings of rice, black beans, and fried bananas on the tables.
Then, the waiters come around… and around… and around… with long skewers of chicken, steak, and sausage. There was top sirloin, regular sirloin, garlic steak, spiced chicken, and bacon-wrapped chicken. As they cut slices for each person, you “catch” the slice with your individual set of small tongs. All you have to do after that is eat, eat, and eat some more. The servers keep coming back with skewers – until you tell them to stop!
A tray of desserts included chocolate cake, strawberry shortcake and tiramisu, but we were encouraged to try the homemade Brazilian desserts: flan, passion fruit mousse, and coconut pudding. We’re glad we did. Especially when we learned that Rosa, our gracious manager, had personally made the flan and pudding; and the owner’s wife and choreographer, Dalva, had made the mousse.
The entire staff for this Brazilian restaurant and show was almost like family. It has been in business for two decades. They were located in Pompano Beach for years until five months ago when they moved to Boca Raton. Mike and Dalva own the restaurant, but most of the wait staff and show people have been with them for years, as well. Rosa, our manager, told us she has been with them for 19 years. Rosa is a real sweetheart, so be sure to say hello to her from us when you go.
After satiating ourselves with food and drink, we settled back to listen to the band for a while. There’s a dance floor, and I was ready to jump up and move to the beat of the drums, but alas, Dennis and my crew weren’t budging. Next time, I’m bringing my boogey buddies! On Tuesday nights, guests get a special low-priced package for the meal, band, and dancing—and I’m guessing the dance floor is hopping.
Wednesdays through Sundays include all the above, the buffet, the Bossa Nova band, and dancing, along with the Brazilian Tropicana Show. And what a show it is! I must admit I wasn’t expecting it to be that good, but what a terrific surprise! There’s singing, dancing, and a martial arts specialty called Capoeira. It’s all energy-packed and loads of fun, sort of a mini-Las Vegas Revue.
I absolutely loved the Capoeiristas. These were 5 amazingly built guys doing a combination of fighting, dancing, and gymnastics… and they were sensational. One of the Capoeiristas looked very young, and when I asked afterwards, it turns out that he was 13! I was told that sometimes one of the female dancer’s daughters joins them as well—and she is only 9! The other Capoeiristas were older—and wow—what pecs!
Barbara and I loved watching these guys. Dennis and Harvey liked them too, but better still, they liked the dancing feather-head-dressed and sequined and beaded bikinied showgirls who moved their stomachs, torsos, and buns in twenty directions at a mile a minute!
It was all a delight to watch. And even more so when the lead singer, in a Carmen Miranda tribute, danced through the audience and cuddled up to men at different tables. Then she took one of the guys back to the stage to dance. Guess who the lucky guy was? Dennis! It was a hoot, especially when she asked him questions, and one of the Brazilian guys from the band put the answers in Dennis’s mouth—literally! The audience roared, and Harvey, Barbara, and I got a great kick out of it. When Dennis got back to the table, he thought I had “set him up.” But no, I didn’t have anything to do with his being chosen. Actually, it’s usually mewho bounds up to the stage when they ask for a volunteer. Finally, this was HIS turn!
With regard to atmosphere, the room itself isn’t fancy or stylish; but once the food and fun begins, it doesn’t matter. Everyone there was enjoying themselves.
Before the show started, I got to chat with one of the dancers, Heather. She is the only one in the troupe that isn’t Brazilian, and she’s been dancing with them for three years. I’m a sucker for a good romantic story, and I love how Heather met her hubby of two years. She started taking Capoeira lessons—and he was the teacher! He has also been a part of the show for 12 years. Unfortunately, he wasn’t in the show the night we saw it; he had broken his leg (I knew that looked dangerous!). Heather made sure to tell us he didn’t injure it in the show, but at his CapoeiraAcademy, where he teaches.
Another thing we learned about Capoeira was from our friend Harvey, who was with us. Harvey had taken six years of Martial Arts, so he knew the history of the Capoeiristas. It seems when they were slaves, their owners prohibited them from having weapons or practicing any kind of martial arts because they didn’t want the slaves rebelling or having an uprising. So instead, the slaves started dancing and put their martial arts into dance so their masters didn’t know what they were doing. Yes, there were some rebellions, but they were all to a dancing beat! Besides having a background in Martial Arts, Harvey told us that he has lots of Spanish-speaking relatives from Columbia, and he can’t wait to bring them all for a night at Brazilian Tropicana!
The supper club is great for couples, families, and groups. There are lots of tables for people celebrating birthdays and other occasions. Organizations can book the entire room for banquets and private parties on off nights.
Meanwhile, now I’m deciding whether to practice my samba and gyrate my buns, or try Capoeira with all those marvelous spins and high kicks. Hmmm…you think if I practice them I’ll work off some of that food and end up in the great shape those gals and guys were in? Oh… if only!
Brazilian Tropicana
7880 Glades Road
Boca Raton, Florida
(561) 477-5421
www.braziliantropicana.com
Marilyn Anderson
Romance on the Road
ELECTRICITY IN THE AIR… AND POWERING CARS, TOO!
|
ELECTRICITY IN THE AIR… AND POWERING CARS, TOO! By Marilyn Anderson & Dennis L. Lanning
Approximately 400 environmentalist investors and celebrities of stage and screen were on hand for the launch party, including Bruce Davidson, Adrienne Janic, Linda Gray, Vincent Gallo, Boti Bliss, Lee Reherman, Patrika Darbo, and the beautiful Darryl Hannah, who was photographing all the happenings. The real “star” of the night, though, was the new Phoenix Sport Utility Truck, all dressed up and ready to go with a special customized red and black paint job. The SUT is the only five-passenger, electric, freeway-speed vehicle in America. It’s a state-of-the-art truck that is ab-so-lutely cool! Able to carry five people and all their gear in quiet comfort, the Phoenix utilizes new lithium battery technology that powers the vehicle for about 130 miles at freeway speeds before recharging, and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 10 seconds. A special charger enables it to fully recharge in a few hours. That rate of acceleration is at the top end for vehicles of this type. True to its roots, the people getting Phoenix off the ground have successfully designed an eclectic utility vehicle that runs and appears conventional in every way, but is transcendent in its environmental effects. Finally! Ed Begley, Jr., enthusiastically endorsed the Phoenix. The environmentally devout Ed owned several previous electric cars and hybrids, and has put his name on the top of the list to buy one of the first 500 Phoenix Motorcars scheduled for delivery in 2008. The Petersen Automotive Museum is a mecca for car enthusiasts. Rare is the museum that stays true to its mandate but is consistently able to put on a variety of shows that fascinate. In addition to the Phoenix event, there was an outstanding exhibit of 74-year-old Ford coupes, entitled “32 Days of 1932 Fords.” Their selection of vehicles is not just meant to tantalize, but also to instruct us in the history of the automobile. Some of the cars are long forgotten, but their impact on car design, engineering, and utility remains. A fantastic exhibit of electric and environmentally sensitive vehicles makes us wonder, “Why did we standardize on fossil fuel?” Soooooo, ride on down in whatever you drive now—and hitch a ride on a tour of this fascinating and compelling venue of our automotive history. And make sure you tune in to Living with Ed on HGTV. * * * Marilyn Anderson |
Wine, Women, and…. COSTUMES from the Movies!
Wine, Women, and…. COSTUMES from the Movies!
By Marilyn Anderson
‘Twas the night after Valentine’s Day—and what a great night it was! On Thursday, February 15th, Women & Wine(www.womenwine.com) sponsored a fantastic event at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising Museum.
Guests enjoyed five wonderful wines along with hors d’oeuvres and a tour of the FIDM Museum’s “Art of Costume Design” exhibit, featuring costumes from 20 top movies of 2006, including The Queen, Marie Antoinette, and Dreamgirls. My personal faves were a dress that Naomi Watts wore in The Painted Veil and the magnificent costumes from The Curse of the Golden Flower.
What made it even more special were the “Quick Culture” guides in front of each exhibit, giving guests the info, gossip, and dish on all the costumes we were viewing. Hmmm… the only disappointment? None of the divine outfits from The Devil Wears Prada were on display. It seems they were all auctioned off previously. Too bad I didn’t know about it—I would have looked “mahvelous” in them, of course!
This exhibit at the 11,000 square-foot FIDM Museum and Galleries is the 15 th annual “Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition,” which runs through April 5 th . The Los Angeles campus also houses a Permanent and Study collection of over 10,000 costumes, accessories, and textiles from the 18 th Century through the present day, including film and theater costume. Top designer holdings include Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, and Lacroix. And get a whiff of this! The Annette Green Perfume Museum, America’s only museum dedicated to the historical and cultural roles of fragrance around the world, is housed at the FIDM Museum and Galleries. So come on, ladies, who wouldn’t want to visit this fabulous place!
And the fun of the gala didn’t end there. Guests received swag bags filled with all kinds of goodies to keep them happy long after the night ended. We each got a complimentary copy, hot off the presses, of “The 2007 Academy Awards Preview,” the guide that predicts Oscar winners. Not to mention a CD of the original score of The Queen and a DVD of the wonderfully funny Academy Award nominated comedy, Little Miss Sunshine. No question—Women & Wine really knows how to throw a party!
Women & Wine presents all kinds of fabulous events, travel ops, great articles, wine club, and a monthly e-newsletter. It’s free to join at www.WomenWine.com.
So let’s meet up at their next event to sip some wine and have some fun. See you there!
Marilyn Anderson
Romance on the Road
Pick Nick’s for Romance Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii Boca Raton, Florida
“Romance on the Road”
PICK “NICK’S” FOR ROMANCE
Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii
Boca Raton, Florida
Over the holidays, we were in Florida with Dennis’s family. It’s great to spend time with them, but after three days, it was either committing hari-kari by jumping off the 10 th floor balcony, or sneaking off someplace to be on our own.
So I called my girlfriend who lives in Boca Raton and asked her for a recommendation. When she heard I was doing a column, “Romance on the Road”- she screamed excitedly, “If you’re writing about romantic restaurants, you MUST go to Nick’s. You have to! It’s the most romantic place in Boca.”
That was all I needed to hear. I promptly called and made a reservation. While the name, “Nick’s Fishmarket” doesn’t necessarily evoke an image of romance, I love to be surprised. And Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii is chock full of them.
Dennis and I parked the car on Palmetto Park Road, next to a nondescript office building. Hmmmm… I was still skeptical about its being “romantic.” It felt like we were going to the bank. But as soon as we walked through the front door, my skepticism vanished, and I surrendered to the magical atmosphere and divine ambiance that is Nick’s Fishmarket in Boca Raton!
The décor has a modern Hawaiian flavor. A long bar accentuated by a lighted pineapple fills the center of the room, with grass-covered “huts” for dining around the sides.
We were immediately greeted by a host who walked us over to our own special thatched hut – in a dimly lit corner. I loved it! The owner, Nick Nickolas, came by to say hello. What a lovely and charming man he is!
We also had a terrific waiter who was helpful and gracious, but the service and attention
didn’t stop there. One of the special things about Nick’s is the congenial service by all his staff, which consists of a four-man team for each table.
They are all extremely attentive with an air of I’m-happy-to-be-here-for-you. At Nick’s, all of the wait staff seem to take great enjoyment and pride in what they do. Interestingly, our waiter replaced our white linen napkins with black ones, when we sat down. Why? I wondered. Since we were wearing black, they didn’t want us to get lint from the white napkins on our clothes!
After ordering the wine, we looked at the menu. And wow, what a unique selection from Italian and French dishes, to Asian delicacies and Greek specialties, with a huge assortment of fresh seafood, as well. We sipped our wine and enjoyed the complimentary
appetizer of smoked marlin with sesame crackers, while perusing our dinner choices.
The menu has a tempting array of appetizers that includes escargots,spring rolls, and sautéed calamari; but a simple name doesn’t convey the complexity of each of these tantalizing dishes. For example, Dennis would never ordinarily order spring rolls (thinking Chinese take-out), but after the waiter described it, he couldn’t resist. And he wasn’t disappointed. I ordered Calamari Sorento with diced tomato, Parmesan cheese, and a demi-glaze.
For entrees, we decided on the Chilean Sea Bass Mirin, and the special lobster dish of the night. We had no idea how fantastic—and fantastically large—it would be! When they brought out the plate, we swooned! The lobster was a four-pounder, baked to moist and succulent perfection with a thick crab cake covering.
The sea bass was equally mouth-watering in its soy, miso and sweet mirin (Japanese wine) glaze, accompanied by sticky rice and vegetables. It was light, flaky, and delectable.
We always share our dishes, so Dennis started with the sea bass, and I began with the lobster. Very soon we switched plates. I took my time with the sea bass, savoring every bite, while Dennis attacked the lobster. He is a true pro at cracking each claw, leg, and back, and sucking out every last morsel.
We topped off our dinner with Nick’s Bananas Foster, a sweet and special ending to a scrumptious meal. Unable to finish the dish, we sat back, happy and full. What’s more romantic than that!
When we learned that Nick’s had only been open about two and a half months, we couldn’t believe it. It was soooo good, and soooo delicious, and the staff was sooo incredible. How could it be soooo new? Aha! Then we found out how!
The owner, Nick Nickolas, previously ran his restaurant at the Boca Raton Resort and Club for 18 years. So although this location is new, Nick has been a consummate restaurateur for decades. And it shows.
Nick is a warm, cordial host with an eye to pleasing his guests. There are photos on the wall of the many celebrities that have dined at his restaurants over the years. He is used to having well known diners—but then, he treats all his guests like they are celebrities.
Nick’s Fishmarket is a romantic spot, complemented by an excellent kitchen and responsive staff. And on Friday and Saturday nights, there’s dancing, too. So next time you’re near Boca Raton, Florida, take a break from your relatives, grab your honey, and go Hawaiian!
Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii
150 E. Palmetto Park Rd
Boca Raton, Florida 33432
561.393.9880
www.nicksboca.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson and Dennis Lanning
It’s All Greek to Me Papa Cristo’s
“Romance on the Road”
IT’S ALL GREEK TO ME
And it’s all fun and delicious, too! It’s Papa Cristo’s Taverna MY BIG FAT GREEK “FAMILY STYLE DINNER” EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT in Los Angeles. Bring your friends, and bring your appetite!
We arrived at 6:30 to find a number of people already seated “family style” at rows of long banquet tables in the brightly lit dining room that adjoins the Greek deli and bakery. At the front of the room was Papa Cristo’s Cousin Mark, pouring 5 different kinds of wine into tasting cups for the guests.
One wine was called “The Blood of Hercules,” a red, full-bodied wine. We loved the Cabernet Dionysus, especially because, as Cousin Mark told us, Dionysus means Dennis in Greek. It figures that’s the one we liked. After tasting all 5, we bought a bottle of the “Dennis” to enjoy with our feast, and a full-bodied feast it was! (Which would definitely make US even more full-bodied!)
Accompanying the wine tasting were appetizers, including Pita bread and taramazola, a white caviar dip. The salty taste was refreshing, particularly when we washed it down with more Dionysus. The appetizers also included a delicious garlicky grilled sausage.
After the Happy Half-Hour, the 5 rows of long tables were filled, some with birthday groups,
others with strangers fast becoming friends, but all with people very eager to eat and party!
Suddenly platters of food started arriving at the table. Everything’s served “family style,” and there’s plenty for even the hungriest of families. The tableware of choice is Styrofoam, not the most elegant way to dine, but it didn’t matter. The atmosphere was friendly, the food abundant, and the wine never stopped. Who even cared?
First came grape leaves, olives, and feta cheese, followed by plates overflowing with spanokopita, triangle-shaped spinach pies in a delicate phyllo crust. On the side, were bowls of tzatsina sauce, which was delicious when drizzled on any of the dishes or used as a dip for the bread. More pita was served, this time whole wheat triangles, and later, soft, fresh baguettes with the crunchiest of crust.
After all these appetizers, we were almost full, but oh, that was only the beginning. Fresh Greek salads with lettuce, tomatoes, and olives were topped with crumbled feta, of course, and a home-made salad dressing.
Then came the main course, or courses, I should say. Platters of fresh grilled skinless chicken, and for us, the piece de resistance, lamb chops. Oh, and speaking of “it’s all Greek to me,” at each table setting, there is a mini-Greek phonetic dictionary—who knows the Greek alphabet anymore? Okay, so it’s a small sheet of paper, “Papa Cristo’s Greek Survival Guide,” which gives the literal translation for certain important phrases, including:
Hello – Yasoo
Good night – Kalineehta
I’m Hungry – Peenow
Good Food – Kalo Fayeeto
How much does it cost? – Poso Kane ?
And about 20 other sayings, including my personal favorite:
I want a kiss – Thelo Filaki!
But, back to the food! Yes, there’s still more. Along with the entrees, they served sauteed string beans with a dash of tomato, and roasted potatoes. Add a dollop of the tzsatzina sauce on your lamb and chicken, and enjoy.
Of course, what makes it all so enjoyable is the ambiance and festive mood of the place, constantly being pierced with shouts of “Ooopa!” After a while a level of “culinary camaraderie” is evident. Everyone is having a grand time. A grand Greek time!
Dessert is, of course, baklava , with a delicious flaky crust and honey-filled pistachio filling. While serving, the waiters ask, “Who’s having a birthday?” (If no one is celebrating, they seem very disappointed, so even if no one really is, point to your friend and say, “He is!” just like I did to Dennis! Then they bring out a cream-filled tart with a candle in it, and the whole room, all 5 banquet tables, break into a loud, rowdy version of “Happy Birthday.” Although he protested, Dennis blew out the candle and happily consumed the sweet creamy treat.
After dessert, the show starts. The lights go down, and Greek music accompanies the entrance of the belly dancer. She gyrates and shimmies at the front of the room and down the aisles. Her first number is the warm-up solo. After that, using a hooked cane, she gently pulls men up from the audience. As more people are pulled from the audience to dance with
her, swaying their bellies and butts, she dances down the aisles; and people stuff dollar bills into her costume. Then she grabbed Dennis! Slightly embarrassed, but having had enough wine not to care, he danced and laughed as the audience applauded and laughed even harder!
The evening ends with everyone having had a satisfying meal and a genuinely good time. Oh, and before leaving the table, the waiters come by with take-out containers, urging everyone to stock up on the leftovers!
It’s hard to believe the reasonable price for all this. The complete dinner with entertainment, including tax and tip, is less than $25. The wine tasting is complimentary; but if you want a bottle, that’s extra, but very reasonable.
So, for romance and fun, with family or friends, pick any Thursday night and make it a special Greek holiday! Visit Papa Cristo’s for a great time. I know we’ll be going back, and when we do, I’ll see you there!
Papa Cristo’s Greek Taverna is located near downtown Los Angeles. Parking is in their own lot with a back entrance that takes you through storerooms richly painted with murals of the Greek countryside and coastal areas. Even seeing the sacks of Grecian flour and other imported commodities stacked on the shelves evokes an other-worldly feeling to this step-back-in-time treat of a place. Enjoy!
Papa Cristo’s
2771 W.Pico Blvd at Normandie
Los Angeles, CA 9006
800.732.3212
www.papacristo.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson and Dennis Lanning
Tommy Rays in Studio City
“Romance on the Road”
Tommy Rays in Studio City
WHAT a party tonight at Tommy Rays! It’s a fabulous new restaurant on Ventura Blvd. in Studio City, and this was their Grand Opening bash! I joined the tons of people having drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and fun. Who was seen at the scene? First, there was Ed Begley Jr., a total gentlemen as well as a consummate actor. Ed, we love you! And I had such a cool conversation with Tasia Sherel from “Everybody Hates Chris.” Tasia was wearing a super outfit—with a stunning hat! I used to wear hats all the time, and seeing Tasia in one, I think I’ll start wearing one again!
Since I’m writing my column, “Romance on the Road,” I asked Tasia what her favorite “Romance on the Road” place is. Tasia loves Santa Barbara. Guess what? Me, too! I told her about an enchanting Bed & Breakfast there, Simpson House Inn. And the terrific 5-star Hotel Andalucia—and their restaurant “31 West!” Also, if you’re in Santa Barbara on a Wednesday night, don’t miss the Live Tango night at Cafe Buenos Aires!
But now, let’s return to the action at Tommy Rays tonight. Tasia has been married to a terrific guy for 10 years. Ever since I started my “Romance on the Road” column, I always have to ask people how they met; and Tasia has a wonderfully romantic story.
Before she started acting… and before her hubby started writing, they both worked at a COLLECTION agency. Now WHO would think that a “collection” agency could be romantic? Well, it can be… and it was… for Tasia and Anthony. They were both working there. He put
a can of “Orange Crush” soda on her desk with a note, “I’ve got a crush on you!” Tasia thought it was soooo sweet – BUT, uh-oh, she doesn’t like orange. So she told an associate that she preferred GRAPE. Sooooo, can you believe it – every day for the next week, Anthony put a can of GRAPE CRUSH soda on her desk. CUT TO: — years later – they are STILL happily married. Now, THAT’S romantic!
And who else did I talk to at the new and incredibly cool Tommy Rays? The daughter of “Ray”—Anna, a designer, who was with her hottie husband, J.R. J.R. turned out to be my hero. I lost an earring and he FOUND it in the middle of the floor. Not only that, but Anna and J.R. are having a baby in April! Her dad, Ray, is one of the owners of Tommy Rays and is an architect, with his office above the restaurant. The other owner is none other than the “Tommy” of Tommy Rays, former San Diego Padre Tommy Le Vasseur.
I sat down at a table to chat with Jon Polito—amazing character actor—and his partner, Darryl, who met on the set of a movie (I told you – I ALWAYS have to ask!) Also, Peter 
Onorati, who you might remember from lots of Steven Bochco’s shows. He also just finished shooting a movie in West Palm Beach. I told John Polito and Peter about my play, “Not Tonight, Guido,” and they agreed we should do a reading of it, soon!
Later, I spoke with Charlene Tilton, who looks incredible. She was working on a couple of TV projects and is also writing a book. Did you say “book?” Another celeb there was the author of that funny and fabulous relationship book, NEVER KISS A FROG: A Girl’s Guide to Creatures from the Dating Swamp. Oh… that’s ME, isn’t it? Okay, a little shameless self-promotion, so what’s wrong with that? I mean, it IS a hot book and so toadallysmart and savvy.
Now, back to Tommy Rays! Some of the other celebs enjoying the appetizers and party drinks: Dominic Comperatore, Matt Cedeno, Patrika Darbo, Kate Linder from “Young and the Restless,” and funny lady Judy Tenuta. I also met the svelte and beautiful Adrienne Janic
from TLC’s “Overhaulin.” Carolina Bacardi hosted this rockin’ “Party with Bacardi” by treating guests to special Bacardi mojitos and Voodoo Doll martinis.
Although it was party time tonight, you should stop by for lunch or dinner Monday thru Saturday, or for Sunday Brunch. Also, there’s a Happy Hour on Mon-Fri from 3-6 with free hors d’oeuvres!
Tommy Rays has an awesome menu. Tonight we sampled mini-crab cakes, tuna tartar, and teriyaki steak-on-a-stick with a mango sauce… all dee-lish. I’ll return soon to try out their “house favorites,” including a Wild Mushroom Trio, Potato and Onion Tart, and Spinach & Cheese Ravioli in a wild mushroom ragout. And if you’re into the beef experience, try their Boulevard Burger with all the fixin’s.
On their outdoor patio tonight, you could make your own s’mores with graham crackers, Hershey’s chocolate, and marshmallows. I loved them and asked if it was on their regular menu. Oops, “Sorry,” the waiter told me, “it’s a ‘specialty’,” but lots of other goodies can be 
found under their “Sweet Tooth” section on the menu. Mmmm… here are a few desserts that sound heavenly: Pumpkin Pot du Crème, Chocolate Lava Cake, and their “Snowball,” white chocolate marshmallow ice cream, rolled in toasted coconut, and served with chocolate syrup & macadamia nuts. Don’t start your diet until you get home!
Tommy Rays
12345 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818-506-2412
www.tommyrayscafe.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson
Movie Review – The Holiday. . .
The Holiday . . .
. . . is almost like an old-fashioned romantic comedy—and I mean that in a GOOD way! I’m not sure why, but I went with low expectations. I didn’t EXPECT to like this movie, but I was surprised. It was fun from beginning to end—and I mean “especially” to Jude Law’s end. (Okay, it’s a cheap shot – but I had to take it. He is so cute!) If truth be told, I was never a Jude Law fan before and didn’t understand why everyone made such a big deal about him. Perhaps I was remembering him from his other films where he often played the “bad” guy. But I never found him that handsome or sexy. Now, I have completely revised my thinking.
Jude Law was made for romantic comedy. He is handsome, charming, adorable, and PERFECT in this film. I heard several women in the theater discussing how he reminded them of a young Cary Grant. My boyfriend responded, “No, he’s BETTER than Cary Grant.” So… it’s not just a “girl thing.” Jude Law is fabulous and adorable in The Holiday.
Kate Winslet is also marvelous sans period clothing, for a change, and playing a contemporary girl, ditched and wounded. The two of them shine. Cameron Diaz is fun and Jack Black—well, it’s nice to see him finally get the girl in a movie, too.
The best part of The Holiday—other than Jude Law—is that there are surprises! Just when you think you know what’s going to happen, it turns out it’s something else, and something better than what you thought. Nancy Meyers, writer-director, has utilized show business as a background (a supposed no-no in the biz—but it works here—and works wonderfully). I love the parts where Cameron Diaz’s character, a movie trailer producer, sees and hears her life like a trailer. I could even have enjoyed more of these! That’s about all I’ll say about the plot. I like to go to a movie knowing nothing and letting the story completely unfold in front of my eyes, so I’m not telling any of it here. Suffice it to say, you’ll smile, you’ll chuckle, and you’ll enjoy! If you miss it at the theaters, get it on DVD!
Written by Marilyn Anderson
